2012 Box End Quadrathlon

Congratulations to Winners of the Box End Quad, that took part on 5th August. Matt Stephenson won the Mens overall and Vet 40 (1.38.06), very closly followed by Adam Norfolk (1.38.33). Russell Brayer won the Mens vet 50, whilst the young Tom Stead came 5th overall winning the U23. (1.41.42).

In the Ladies Roz Giles won convincingly (2.00.10), with Sarah Roger in 2nd (2.07.43) with Alison Deykin in 3rd (2.13.36)

Race report from Mark Pryor

Sunday morning dawned with a thin vale of mist covering the lakes at Box End as the sun broke through the darkness to make ideal race conditions, even the wind had abated from the previous day.

27 athletes lined up [in the lake] for the Quad and 17 for the Tri for the swim start in the cable tow lake. Matt Chandler was the first out of the water after the 750m swim followed by Matt Stephenson 50 seconds later. After a quick dash in to transition to remove the wet suits and grab the paddles before starting on the 4.4km kayak leg. Adam Norfolk soon showed his special field by gaining any lost ground and paddling skilfully to take the lead. The two portages [between the two lakes] took a few people by surprise as they struggled to get their varied craft over the spit of land, most wishing they had a light K1 racer. Young Tom Stead also put in a good time, much to Matt’s surprise by overtaking him.

Off the water and in to transition again it was time to put on the helmets and wheel out the bikes for the start of the 3 lap [15KM] off- road bike course. This short but surprisingly gruelling circuit was to prove as tough as ever. There were a few frills and spills on the corners as people under estimated the damp grass conditions. The top 6 bike splits were very close but it was young Tom who posted the fastest by about 30 seconds.

It was now all down to the final 5KM run, around the same circuit as the bikes. This is where Matt Stephenson came into his own and set about closing the gap between him and the lead contenders. It was a close finish with Matt crossing the line first in a time of 1:38:06 followed 27 seconds later by Adam Norfolk. Roz Giles was the first lady home after posting some consistent times throughout the four disciplines. Young Tom [sweet 16] came home in fourth overall.

All in all a great race was had by all with some good times posted. All seemed to enjoy themselves, even the nervous first timers. Big thanks to all the helpers and marshals who made the race possible.

Mark Pryor Quadrac Racing

Full results Box End Quad 2012 results.